Education

Chronic pain is a multifaceted phenomenon that is poorly understood by many practitioners and people in the community. Since psychological, social, cognitive, behavioral and other factors influence both consequences and causes of chronic pain, it is often difficult to understand the nature of a specific person’s pain condition. Because many syndromes are resistant to treatments, it can be difficult for both patients and physicians to communicate expectations and interpretations of results. The complexity of the phenomenon also impedes effort to place observations into an appropriate context. Accordingly, education is an essential component of the Center.

The Center sponsors seminars, training and conferences for the professional community, and provides materials and programs for the public.

We take an active part in the training of researchers and practitioners. We developed several programs in parallel: a formal course in pain and pain management for the medical and graduate students, enhancement of the existing clinical training in pain management for residents and fellows, and establishment of training opportunities in clinical research. We are proud to have integrated a program in pain studies that interests both clinicians and scientists.